As a resident of the Root River watershed in southeastern Minnesota, I’ve participated in civic engagement training during the past year. About 15 residents from throughout the watershed met monthly to learn about the landscape, the condition of the Root River and its tributaries, and how to lead public conversations about water. Six community gatherings were held this spring, and we just met to share experiences leading those conversations.About 150 people attended meetings in our rural area. They walked in with purpose and curiosity. One participant at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center said, “I’ve never been to a meeting like this and I didn’t know what to expect, but I’m glad I came.” Evaluations showed others felt the same.
At the meetings we learned what citizens know and want to know about water, who’s trusted for information, what people believe can be done to improve water quality, and what stands in the way.
Kudos to Minnesota Pollution Control Agency for investing in conversations like this across the state. As agency responsible for assessment and strategy development for Minnesota’s 81 major watersheds (Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategies, or WRAPS) they’re connecting people, reducing finger-pointing, and pointing the way to collaborative action.
